He is the founder of the Sikh religion and also the first Sikh Guru. In 2025, this festival falls on Wednesday, November 5.
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025: A Festival of Eternal Wisdom and Equality
Guru Nanak Jayanti 2025, which is also known as Gurpurab or Guru Nanak Prakash Utsav, is the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
He is the founder of the Sikh religion and also the first Sikh Guru. In 2025, this festival falls on Wednesday, November 5. It is one of the most important festivals for Sikhs, remembering the timeless teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji on faith, wisdom, equality, and selfless service that he preached throughout his life.
He was born in 1469 at Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi (present-day Nankana Sahib, Pakistan)—a deeply spiritual child who raised his voice and questioned empty rituals and social inequalities. “Ik Onkar” (There is but one God) and emphasis on compassion, humility, and truth inspire people all around the world.
How Guru Nanak Jayanti Is Celebrated
It begins with a 48-hour continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib – Akhand Path, two days before the Main Gurpurab. Devotees take turns reading from the holy scripture.
Nagar Kirtans (religious processions) are carried out through the streets. This procession features the Guru Granth Sahib carried in a decorated palanquin, led by the Panj Pyare (The Five Beloved Ones) with devotees singing kirtans and performing Gatka (the traditional Sikh martial art). There is an atmosphere of devotion and unity in the streets with beautiful flowers, banners, and flags.
On the main day, gurdwaras serve free meals (langar) to everyone irrespective of religion, caste, or background. This selfless act reflects Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s eternal message of equality and service. The whole celebration concludes with special prayers, discourses, and the lighting of lamps and beautiful candles. The Golden Temple (one of the most important Sikh pilgrimages) and other gurudwaras offer a divine experience filled with deep devotion, peace and serenity.
Guru Nanak Jayanti is a spiritual reminder of living life with the Guru's eternal teachings that are a gift for humanity.
